I sent my deepest sympathy and condolences to Jo Cox’s family. I am deeply saddened and shocked by Jo’s brutal murder on Thursday afternoon whilst she was in her constituency doing the job she was elected to do, serving her community. Jo was a brave compassionate MP who will be dearly missed. She was a wonderful, kind, caring person who was liked and respected in all parts of the House.

This attack was an assault on democracy itself, an attack on the right of everyone to have their say in how our country is run, and for those that the people elect to be able to listen to and represent them without fear or favour. We must not allow those who peddle hatred, terror and division to poison and degrade our national and political life.